The longbill spearfish (*Tetrapturus pfluegeri*) is a slender, fast-swimming billfish known for its elongated upper jaw and striking cobalt-blue coloration. Found primarily in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this species is prized by sport fishers for its speed and acrobatics rather than for commercial value, as its flesh is less esteemed than that of marlin or swordfish. The top countries involved in longbill spearfish fishing are the United States (notably off Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico), the Bahamas, and several Caribbean nations, where recreational fishing charters target this elusive species. While commercial harvest is limited and largely incidental, the recreational fishing industry in these regions benefits from catch-and-release tournaments and tourism, helping to sustain local economies while promoting conservation of this relatively rare billfish.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Spain | 88 |
2 | Mexico | 35 |
3 | Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) | 5 |
4 | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.